Launching Forward: New Bilateral Program Propels Czech-Cambodian Healthcare Partnership
06.03.2024 / 07:40 | Aktualizováno: 15.03.2024 / 09:41
The recent meeting between Czech Embassy in Phnom Penh and the Cambodian Ministry of Health (MoH) in Cambodia on March 6, 2024, was a pivotal discussion that delineated priorities for the forthcoming programming period. Attended by representatives from both the Czech Republic and Cambodia, including high-ranking officials and key stakeholders, the meeting focused on various aspects crucial for advancing healthcare in Cambodia. His Excellency State Secretary Sung Vinntak extended warm appreciation for the ongoing cooperation and support from the Czech government in advancing healthcare in Cambodia. The commitment to further strengthening collaboration for the 2024-2030 period was reaffirmed, emphasizing mutual dedication to improving health outcomes and fostering solidarity between the two nations.
One of the primary agenda items was the establishment of a new bilateral development cooperation program between the Czech Republic and Cambodia, along with the corresponding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This program aims to enhance collaboration in addressing health sector needs, particularly focusing on maternal and child health.
Additionally, discussions centered on continuation of the perinatal care project with the National Pediatric Hospital (NPH), emphasizing the importance of sustaining initiatives aimed at improving healthcare services for mothers and newborns. Furthermore, the meeting addressed the formulation of Joint Monitoring Indicators (JMI) aligned with Cambodia's Sustainable Development Goals under the MoH, underscoring the commitment to tracking progress and ensuring accountability in healthcare endeavors. Another point was the exploration of potential involvement of the Czech private sector in healthcare initiatives in Cambodia, subject to adherence to regulatory requirements set forth by the Ministry of Health.
Throughout the meeting, there was a clear emphasis on addressing the pressing needs identified by the Ministry of Health. His Excellency Vinntak outlined nine priorities for the health sector, ranging from preventive health measures to digitalization initiatives. These priorities underscored the importance of comprehensive approaches to healthcare delivery, encompassing infrastructure development, capacity building, and disease prevention. Moreover, the Ministry highlighted three key principles, including strengthening the capacity of health facilities at the grassroots level, improving the referral system, and enhancing human resource capabilities. These principles align closely with the programmatic priorities of the Czech Republic's bilateral cooperation, emphasizing shared objectives in advancing healthcare accessibility and quality.
The engagement also provided insights into specific challenges faced by healthcare institutions in Cambodia. Representatives from the National Pediatric Hospital and the National Center for Maternal and Child Health raised concerns regarding patient referral systems, training needs, and the shortage of biomedical engineers.
Overall, the meetings exemplified the collaborative spirit and shared commitment of both Cambodia and the Czech Republic to address healthcare challenges and advance the well-being of communities in Cambodia.